Things to see from Edinburgh to Inverness

Scotland is a country full of natural beauty, cultural heritage, and a rich history. Edinburgh and Inverness are two famous cities in Scotland that are known for their tourist attractions. Both these cities have their unique charm that appeals to travelers, and the drive from Edinburgh to Inverness is a journey that is breathtakingly beautiful with scenic landscapes.

In this article, we will take a look at the various things to see and do when traveling from Edinburgh to Inverness.

1. Arthur’s Seat
2. Edinburgh Castle
3. Holyrood Palace
4. St. Giles Cathedral
5. The Royal Mile
6. Cawdor Castle
7. Loch Ness
8. Culloden Battlefield
9. Inverness Castle
10. River Ness

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Arthur’s Seat

Starting with the famous landmarks in Edinburgh, Arthur’s Seat is a must-visit place. It is the highest peak in Holyrood Park, rising to 251 meters above sea level. From the peak, one can witness stunning views of Edinburgh, and on clear days, one can see the Firth of Forth and even the distant peaks of the Scottish Highlands. The ascent to the summit of Arthur’s Seat is a popular hiking trail with a distance of around 2.5 miles, taking between one to two hours to complete. The path is relatively easy to follow, but as you get higher, it can be steep and rocky.

Edinburgh Castle

Another must-visit landmark in Edinburgh is the castle. The Castle dates back to the 12th century and played a crucial role in the history of Scotland. Over the centuries, it has seen numerous battles and sieges. Today, it is home to the Scottish Crown Jewels, the National War Museum of Scotland, and the Stone of Destiny. The castle also provides visitors with stunning panoramic views of the city and the surrounding areas.

Holyrood Palace

If you are interested in the rich history and culture of Scotland, then Holyrood Palace should be on your list of places to visit. The Palace has been the residence of Scottish monarchs since the 16th century and is the official residence of Queen Elizabeth II when she used to visit Scotland. Visitors can tour the palace and experience the grandeur and luxury of the royal residence. The palace is also located in close proximity to the extinct volcano, Arthur’s Seat.

St. Giles Cathedral

St. Giles Cathedral is a stunningly beautiful church in Edinburgh and is linked to the Scottish Reformation. It has been around since the 12th century, with the present structure dating back to the 14th and 15th centuries. The cathedral has been the worship site for saints and monarchs throughout Scottish history, making it a significant landmark to visit for those interested in Scottish culture.

The Royal Mile

The Royal Mile is one of the most famous roads in Edinburgh and is the oldest street in the city. It is where the ancient city of Edinburgh was founded and spreads from Edinburgh Castle to Holyrood Palace. The road is lined with historical landmarks, old buildings, and charming shops where you can buy souvenirs. Walking the Royal Mile is a great way to take in the city’s history and to experience the life of the people who lived there in the past.

Cawdor Castle

As you leave Edinburgh, you’ll soon find yourself in the Scottish countryside, and one of the famous castles on the route to Inverness is Cawdor Castle. The castle is surrounded by beautiful gardens and is steeped in Scottish history. It is most famous for its connection to Shakespeare’s play, “Macbeth.” Visitors can take guided tours of the castle and enjoy the picturesque landscape of the surrounding areas.

Loch Ness

No trip to Inverness would be complete without visiting Loch Ness, which is famous for the mythical creature, the Loch Ness monster. The Loch is approximately 23 miles long and 750ft deep, making it the second deepest loch in Scotland. Visitors can take a cruise along the waters of the loch and learn about its creature myth. Alternatively, visitors can take a hike around the Loch Ness, which offers stunning views of the Scottish Highlands.

Culloden Battlefield

History enthusiasts should make a point to visit the Culloden Battlefield near Inverness. The Battlefield is the site of the last significant battle between the Scottish and English armies in 1746. The battlefield is now a memorial and a museum where visitors can learn about the bloody battle that claimed thousands of lives. The museum houses artifacts discovered from the battlefield, and visitors can walk on the newly-created paths between the graves of the slain soldiers.

Inverness Castle

When you reach Inverness, you cannot miss visiting Inverness Castle. It is an impressive red sandstone structure that was built in the 19th century. The castle has served different purposes over the years, from a military fort to a courthouse. Today, it is home to the Sheriff of Inverness, and the Castle has fantastic views of the River Ness from its tower.

River Ness

The River Ness is a beautiful river that flows through Inverness. It is almost 12 miles long and is known for its clean, clear waters. Visitors can take a relaxing walk along the banks of the river or try their hand at fishing. Additionally, there are many restaurants and cafes that offer beautiful views of the river.

The drive from Edinburgh to Inverness offers a unique opportunity for visitors to experience the rich culture, history, and natural beauty of Scotland. The route is full of famous landmarks, historical sites, and stunning landscapes. From Edinburgh Castle to Inverness Castle, and from Loch Ness to Culloden Battlefield, there is something for everyone.

The drive is around 180 miles, so taking plenty of breaks to experience these amazing sights is a must. Whether you have a few days or a week, the drive from Edinburgh to Inverness will be an unforgettable experience.

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